Summer is approaching, and what’s a better way to celebrate than a playlist? Whether you’re grilling hot dogs, sitting by the beach or on a road trip, these songs will help set the mood.

Alvvays – “Plimsoll Punks”

Would it even be a summer playlist without Alvvays? “Plimsoll Punks” is the third single from the band’s 2017 “Antisocialites” LP and perhaps their most summery with its twangy guitars and warm, lo-fi production.

Vampire Weekend – “Sunflower”

Featuring The Internet’s Steve Lacy, “Sunflower” is the fourth single from Vampire Weekend’s forthcoming “Father of the Bride” LP and perhaps its best. The infectious guitar and bass riff throughout the song combined with Ezra Koenig’s endearing lyrics make for a defining summer tune. Be sure to check out the Jonah Hill directed music video too, which features puppies and Jerry Seinfeld.

Snail Mail – “Heat Wave”

Why not prepare for the actual summer heat wave with Snail Mail’s “Heat Wave?” From her 2018 debut LP “Lush,” “Heat Wave” tells the story of a failed summer relationship. Lindsey Jordan coats the song in rich guitar tones to really invoke that summer feeling.

of Montreal – “Suffer for Fashion”

The opener on of Montreal’s 2007 record “Hissing Fauna” is another endlessly lively pop song from the mind of Kevin Barnes. “Suffer for Fashion” is a lovely tune for a late night drive.

New Order – “Age of Consent”
A shift away from their Joy Division days, the opening guitar riff on “Age of Consent” sets the tone for New Order’s 1983 debut “Power, Corruption, and Lies.” Punchy drums and Bernard Summer’s vocals make this a song worthy of any summer playlist.

Japanese Breakfast – “Everybody Wants to Love You”

This indie pop song from Michelle Zauner’s project Japanese Breakfast is a hyperactive tune perfect for warm, sunny days.

Brian Eno – “St. Elmo’s Fire”

Most songs from Eno’s “Another Green World” would work here, but “St. Elmo’s Fire” is especially golden with its electric guitar riffs from King Crimson’s Robert Fripp.

The Beach Boys – “Good Vibrations”

“Good Vibrations” is one of the quintessential songs from The Beach Boys’ massive discography. With its iconic Electro-Theremin wines and twee vocal harmonies, it’s one of the defining songs of the summer too.

Stella Donnelly – “Tricks”

One of the newer songs on this playlist, “Tricks” is Stella Donnelly’s attempt at mocking the “Australian identity,” but it’s an exceptional pop song for long road trips too.

Cocteau Twins – “Heaven or Las Vegas”

“Heaven or Las Vegas” is one of the Cocteau Twins’ most popular tracks, and for good reason. Elizabeth Fraser’s vocals and the droning instrumentation make it a perfect tune for toasty summer nights.

_Edited by Joe Cross | jcross@themaneater.com_